HOW TO GROW THYME - Thymus vulgaris

The herb thyme - Thymus vulgaris, is a hardy, aromatic, evergreen dwarf shrub, the shoots of which are used as a culinary herb for favouring. Commonly called the 'garden thyme' or 'common thyme', it is native to the Mediterranean regions including north Africa growing wild on mountain highlands

The fragrant leaves dark-green leaves are long and narrow and are used fresh or dried in bouquet garni and in stuffing for rich meat or fish, and in casseroles.

How to grow thyme - Thymus vulgaris

Thyme will grow best in a hot, sunny location in any well-drained soil. It is generally planted in the spring so that it has time to establish its root system before the hot, dry summer months. It will need watering in its first year, especially in the warm summer months and during periods when there is little or no rain. By the second year it should be surprisingly drought resistant. Thyme is also tolerant to salt spray making it suitable for coastal areas.

After it flowering period in June, cut back thyme plants to maintain compact bushy growth, however you may well find that if ignored your plants have become straggly after a couple of years. Unfortunately mature plants do not tend to respond well to pruning so you may wish to consider replacing them with new stock in this instance.

It can be propagated by seed from February to April, heel cuttings in May or June, or by dividing rooted sections in March to April.